U.S. patent application number 17/594275 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-02 for sensor device for a vehicle, method for producing a sensor device for a vehicle, method for operating a sensor device for a vehicle, and sensor system for a vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Knorr-Bremse Systeme Fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH. Invention is credited to Stefan Prams.
Application Number | 20220170973 17/594275 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006182458 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220170973 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Prams; Stefan |
June 2, 2022 |
SENSOR DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE, METHOD FOR PRODUCING A SENSOR DEVICE
FOR A VEHICLE, METHOD FOR OPERATING A SENSOR DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE,
AND SENSOR SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE
Abstract
A sensor device for a vehicle, including: at least two magnetic
field sensors for detecting a sensing magnetic field from a sensing
magnet; in which the magnetic field sensors are configured so that
the resultant magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an
external magnetic interference field from an interference source
develops a different strength of effect in different magnetic field
sensors. Also described are a related method, control
apparatus/unit, sensor system, and computer readable medium.
Inventors: |
Prams; Stefan;
(Unterschleissheim, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Knorr-Bremse Systeme Fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH |
Muenchen |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006182458 |
Appl. No.: |
17/594275 |
Filed: |
March 26, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
March 26, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2020/058516 |
371 Date: |
October 8, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01R 29/0892 20130101;
G01R 29/0878 20130101; G01R 33/0017 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01R 29/08 20060101
G01R029/08; G01R 33/00 20060101 G01R033/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 16, 2019 |
DE |
10 2019 109 970.6 |
Claims
1-15. (canceled)
16. A sensor device for a vehicle, comprising: at least two
magnetic field sensors for detecting a sensing magnetic field from
a sensing magnet; wherein the magnetic field sensors are configured
so that the resultant magnetic field from the sensing magnetic
field and an external magnetic interference field from an
interference source develops a different strength of effect in
different magnetic field sensors.
17. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein at least one of the
magnetic field sensors includes a device for shielding at least one
component of the sensing magnetic field and/or the magnetic
interference field and/or at least one of the magnetic field
sensors includes a device for concentrating at least one component
of the sensing magnetic field and/or the magnetic interference
field.
18. The sensor device of claim 17, wherein the device is configured
to influence the sensing magnetic field and the magnetic
interference field in different ways, and/or the device is arranged
inside or outside a housing of the sensor device and/or the device
is oriented and/or positioned depending on ambient magnetic
conditions.
19. The sensor device of claim 17, wherein at least one of the
magnetic field sensors includes the shielding device and the
concentrating device, wherein the devices act on the magnetic
fields in different ways, or that at least a first of the magnetic
field sensors includes the shielding device and at least a second
of the magnetic field sensors includes the concentrating
device.
20. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein a detection orientation
of at least one magnetic field sensor is rotated relative to at
least one detection orientation of at least one other magnetic
field sensor and/or that at least one of the magnetic field sensors
includes a device for at least partially compensating for the
magnetic interference field.
21. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein the sensor device is
configured to detect the size of a deviation between the sensing
magnetic field and the magnetic interference field so that a
comparator threshold is not exceeded.
22. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein the magnetic field
sensors are configured or oriented so that, at least in parts of
the solid angle range that the magnetic interference field can
occupy, an oppositely aligned or non-co-directional component of
the signal error is greater than a co-directional component of the
signal error, wherein the signal error represents a difference in a
signal from a magnetic field sensor between the absence of an
external magnetic interference field and the presence of an
external magnetic interference field.
23. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein each of the magnetic
field sensors is configured for at least two-axis magnetic field
sensing, and wherein each of the magnetic field sensors is
configured to determine and output a magnetic angle determined from
at least two magnetic field components in the respective axial
direction.
24. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein the vehicle is a utility
vehicle and/or the magnetic field sensors are configured for
measuring a position of one of the sensing magnets when a magnetic
interference field of up to 100 millitesla is present.
25. A method for producing a sensor device for a vehicle, the
method comprising: providing at least two magnetic field sensors
for detecting a sensing magnetic field from a sensing magnet; and
arranging and/or implementing the magnetic field sensors so that
the resultant magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an
external magnetic interference field of an interference source
develops a different strength of effect in different magnetic field
sensors.
26. A method for operating a sensor device for a vehicle, the
method comprising: reading in sensor signals from the at least two
magnetic field sensors of the sensor device, wherein the sensor
device includes: at least two magnetic field sensors for detecting
a sensing magnetic field from a sensing magnet; wherein the
magnetic field sensors are configured so that the resultant
magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an external
magnetic interference field from an interference source develops a
different strength of effect in different magnetic field sensors;
and evaluating the sensor signals read in during the reading-in to
determine properties of the sensing magnetic field.
27. A control apparatus for operating a sensor device for a
vehicle, comprising: a control unit configured to perform the
following: reading in sensor signals from the at least two magnetic
field sensors of the sensor device, wherein the sensor device
includes: at least two magnetic field sensors for detecting a
sensing magnetic field from a sensing magnet, wherein the magnetic
field sensors are configured so that the resultant magnetic field
from the sensing magnetic field and an external magnetic
interference field from an interference source develops a different
strength of effect in different magnetic field sensors; and
evaluating the sensor signals read in during the reading-in to
determine properties of the sensing magnetic field.
28. A sensor system for a vehicle, comprising: a sensor device,
wherein the sensor device includes: at least two magnetic field
sensors for detecting a sensing magnetic field from a sensing
magnet, wherein the magnetic field sensors are configured so that
the resultant magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an
external magnetic interference field from an interference source
develops a different strength of effect in different magnetic field
sensors; and a control unit, wherein the control unit is connected
to the sensor device so that it is capable of signal transmission,
and wherein the control unit is configured to perform the
following: reading in sensor signals from the at least two magnetic
field sensors of the sensor device; and evaluating the sensor
signals read in during the reading-in to determine properties of
the sensing magnetic field.
29. A non-transitory computer readable medium having a computer
program, which is executable by a processor, comprising: a program
code arrangement having program code for operating a sensor device
for a vehicle, by performing the following: reading in sensor
signals from the at least two magnetic field sensors of the sensor
device, wherein the sensor device includes: at least two magnetic
field sensors for detecting a sensing magnetic field from a sensing
magnet; wherein the magnetic field sensors are configured so that
the resultant magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an
external magnetic interference field from an interference source
develops a different strength of effect in different magnetic field
sensors; and evaluating the sensor signals read in during the
reading-in to determine properties of the sensing magnetic
field.
30. The computer readable medium of claim 29, wherein at least one
of the magnetic field sensors includes a device for shielding at
least one component of the sensing magnetic field and/or the
magnetic interference field and/or at least one of the magnetic
field sensors includes a device for concentrating at least one
component of the sensing magnetic field and/or the magnetic
interference field.
31. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein the vehicle is a utility
vehicle and/or the magnetic field sensors are configured for
measuring a position of one of the sensing magnets when a magnetic
interference field of up to 50 millitesla is present.
32. The sensor device of claim 16, wherein the vehicle is a utility
vehicle and/or the magnetic field sensors are configured for
measuring a position of one of the sensing magnets when a magnetic
interference field of up to 25 millitesla is present.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor device for a
vehicle, to a method for producing a sensor device for a vehicle, a
method for operating a sensor device for a vehicle and to a sensor
system for a vehicle, in particular to the field of magnetic field
sensors.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0002] Existing methods aimed at providing protection against
external magnetic fields include, in particular, metallic shields,
additional sensors that are used to detect such external magnetic
fields, or attempts to cancel out external magnetic fields from a
useful signal.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Against this background, an object of the present invention
is to create an improved sensor device for a vehicle, an improved
method for producing a sensor device for a vehicle, an improved
method for operating a sensor device for a vehicle, and an improved
sensor system for a vehicle.
[0004] This object may be achieved by a sensor device for a
vehicle, a method for producing a sensor device for a vehicle, a
method for operating a sensor device for a vehicle, a sensor system
for a vehicle and a corresponding computer program according to the
independent claims.
[0005] According to embodiments, a configuration of a sensor device
or a sensor cluster can be implemented in such a way that an
external magnetic field acting on the device has different actions
on sensors, sensor elements, sensor chips or sensor channels of the
device, wherein the effect of the external magnetic field
additionally differs from the action of a sensing magnetic field,
more precisely, in a systematic or detectable manner. This can also
be exploited in a method for calibration and detection when using
such a device. This can be achieved even though external magnetic
fields act as a so-called common cause effect, and thus a
protective effect can also be achieved due to the external magnetic
field acting in different ways on a measuring signal and a given
ability to differentiate the external magnetic field from a
movement of the sensing magnet.
[0006] In accordance with some embodiments, it is advantageously
possible to ensure protection for magnetic sensor systems against
interference effects by external ambient magnetic conditions or
external magnetic fields. Such protection is required, for example,
by safety standards in the automotive industry, for example ISO
26262, etc. According to the embodiments, therefore, a higher
protection against external magnetic fields as well as protection
for the population and users of the sensor system can be achieved
since the common-cause effect of the external magnetic field can be
detected. Sensors, sensor chips or sensor channels which are used
for a main sensory function, such as distance measurement, angle
measurement, etc., can thus also detect the presence of a magnetic
interference field or render it detectable, and communicate
implicitly or explicitly via existing channels without the need for
additional sensors and channels specifically for this purpose.
Protection from a wide range of external magnetic fields in terms
of strength and geometric direction as well as at least partial
compensation of the effect on a useful signal can also be achieved
by back-calculation of the external magnetic field. This advantage
is particularly noticeable with regard to applications that require
or permit a wide measuring range, since the requirements of an
extended measuring range and the requirements of magnetic field
protection can be realized in synergy, hence with little effort.
Further advantages are the achievement of a higher ASIL class
(Automotive Safety Integrity Level) and the operation of a larger
range of required integrity levels with the same technology or
components, which enables economies of scale and thus cost
reduction and streamlining. Compared to shielding entire printed
circuit boards, installation space and costs can be saved. Compared
to merely weakening the external magnetic field, an increased level
of protection can be achieved. This is also possible without the
use of expensive components, such as mu-metal, expensive chips with
special software, resulting in good component availability and cost
savings. Interference effects between a conventional shield and a
useful field, or sensing magnetic field of a sensing magnet, can
also be avoided, resulting in increased protection and reduced
configuration constraints, etc.
[0007] A sensor device for a vehicle is presented, wherein the
sensor device comprises at least two magnetic field sensors for
detecting a sensing magnetic field from a sensing magnet, wherein
the magnetic field sensors are configured in such a way that the
resultant magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an
external magnetic interference field from an interference source
develops a different size of the effect obtained with respect to
signal values in the relevant magnetic field sensors.
[0008] The sensor device can comprise the sensing magnets. Each of
the magnetic field sensors can comprise at least one measurement
transducer. The magnetic field sensors can be located on a common
circuit board or on a plurality of circuit boards. A circuit board
can be a semiconductor chip.
[0009] According to one embodiment, at least one of the magnetic
field sensors can comprise a device for shielding at least one
component of the sensing magnetic field and, additionally or
alternatively, of the magnetic interference field. The shielding
device can be configured to attenuate at least one component of the
sensing magnetic field and, additionally or alternatively, of the
magnetic interference field for the measurement transducer. Such an
embodiment offers the advantage that the influence of the magnetic
interference field can be easily and reliably detected or rendered
detectable.
[0010] Also, at least one of the magnetic field sensors can
comprise a device for concentrating at least one component of the
sensing magnetic field and, additionally or alternatively, of the
magnetic interference field. The concentrating device can be
configured to concentrate the at least one component of the sensing
magnetic field and, additionally or alternatively, of the magnetic
interference field, on the measurement transducer. Such an
embodiment offers the advantage that magnetic interference effects
can be determined reliably and accurately.
[0011] In this case, the shielding device and additionally or
alternatively the concentrating device, can be configured to
influence the sensing magnetic field and the magnetic interference
field differently. In addition or alternatively, the shielding
device, and additionally or alternatively the concentrating device,
can be arranged inside or outside a housing of the sensor device.
In addition or alternatively, the shielding device, and
additionally or alternatively the concentrating device, may be
oriented and additionally or alternatively positioned depending on
ambient magnetic conditions. Such an embodiment offers the
advantage that the influence of the magnetic interference field can
be simply and inexpensively detected or rendered detectable.
[0012] In particular, at least one of the magnetic field sensors
can comprise the shielding device and the concentrating device. In
this case, the devices can have different effects on the magnetic
fields. For example, the devices can act differently in different
spatial directions of the magnetic fields. Alternatively, at least
a first of the magnetic field sensors can comprise the shielding
device and at least a second of the magnetic field sensors can
comprise the concentrating device. Such an embodiment offers the
advantage that, depending on the requirements and constraints on a
configuration of the sensor device, suitable and reliable measures
can be taken to detect magnetic interference fields.
[0013] According to one embodiment, a detection orientation of at
least one magnetic field sensor can be rotated relative to a
detection orientation of at least one other magnetic field sensor.
A detection orientation can refer to an orientation of at least one
detection axis, sensing axis, or sensitive axis of the magnetic
field sensor. Such an embodiment offers the advantage that a
different effect of magnetic fields on the magnetic field sensors
can be achieved, allowing costs and components to be saved.
[0014] Also, at least one of the magnetic field sensors can
comprise a device for at least partially compensating for the
magnetic interference field. The device can be configured to
execute a compensation algorithm. Such an embodiment offers the
advantage that the magnetic interference field can be cancelled out
at the sensor itself.
[0015] According to one embodiment, each of the magnetic field
sensors can be configured for at least two-axis magnetic field
sensing. In particular, each of the magnetic field sensors can be
configured to determine and output a magnetic angle which is
determined from at least two magnetic field components in the
respective axial direction. Such an embodiment offers the advantage
that the interference field can be determined more accurately.
[0016] The vehicle can also be a utility vehicle. In addition or
alternatively, the magnetic field sensors can be configured to
measure a position of the sensing magnet when a magnetic
interference field strength of up to 100 mT, in particular of up to
50 mT or up to 25 mT or millitesla, is present. In addition or
alternatively, the magnetic field sensors can be configured to
measure a position of the sensing magnet when a magnetic
interference field of at least 1.25 mT, in particular of up to 3.75
mT or millitesla, is present. Such an embodiment offers the
advantage that even increased environmental conditions for
commercial vehicles can be met.
[0017] Furthermore, a method for producing a sensor device for a
vehicle is presented, the method comprising the following
steps:
[0018] providing at least two magnetic field sensors for detecting
a sensing magnetic field from a sensing magnet; and
[0019] arranging and, additionally or alternatively, configuring
the magnetic field sensors such that the resultant magnetic field
from the sensing magnetic field and an external magnetic
interference field of an interference source develops a different
strength of effect in different magnetic field sensors.
[0020] By executing the method an embodiment of the above-mentioned
sensor device can be produced.
[0021] A method for operating a sensor device for a vehicle is also
presented, the method comprising the following steps:
[0022] reading in sensor signals from the at least two magnetic
field sensors of an embodiment of the above-mentioned sensor
device; and
[0023] evaluating the sensor signals read in the reading-in step,
to determine properties of the sensing magnetic field.
[0024] The properties of a sensing magnetic field can also be
understood to mean a position of the sensing magnet.
[0025] The method or the steps of the method can be executed using
a control unit.
[0026] The approach presented here also creates a control unit that
is configured to carry out, control and/or implement the steps of a
variant of a method presented here in corresponding devices. This
configuration variant of the invention in the form of a control
unit also enables the object of the invention to be achieved
quickly and efficiently.
[0027] For this purpose, the control unit can comprise at least one
processing unit for processing signals or data, at least one
storage unit for storing signals or data, at least one interface to
a sensor or an actuator for reading in sensor signals from the
sensor or for outputting data or control signals to the actuator,
and/or at least one communication interface for reading in or
outputting data that is embedded in a communication protocol. The
processing unit can be, for example, a signal processor, a
microcontroller or the like, wherein the storage unit can be a
flash memory, an EEPROM or a magnetic storage unit. The
communication interface can be configured to read in or output data
by wireless and/or wired means, wherein a communication interface
which can read in or output wired data can read in this data, for
example, by electrical or optical means from an appropriate data
transmission line or can output this data into an appropriate data
transmission line.
[0028] A control unit as used here can be understood to mean an
electrical device which processes sensor signals and outputs
control and/or data signals depending on them. The control unit can
comprise an interface, which can be implemented in hardware and/or
software. In the case of a hardware-based configuration, the
interfaces can be, for example, part of a so-called system ASIC,
which includes the whole range of functions of the control unit. It
is also possible, however, that the interfaces are dedicated
integrated circuits, or at least in part consist of discrete
components. In the case of a software-based configuration, the
interfaces can be software modules which exist, for example, on a
micro-controller in addition to other software modules.
[0029] A sensor system for a vehicle is also presented, the sensor
system having the following features:
[0030] an embodiment of the above-mentioned sensor device; and
[0031] an embodiment of the above-mentioned control unit, wherein
the control unit is connected to the sensor device such that it is
capable of signal transmission.
[0032] Also advantageous is a computer program product or computer
program with program code which can be stored on a machine-readable
medium or storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory, a hard
drive or an optical storage device and is used to carry out,
implement and/or control the steps of the method according to any
one of the embodiments described above, in particular when the
program product or program is executed on a computer or a
device.
[0033] Different embodiments may include, in particular, an
arrangement of magnetic field sensors and, where appropriate, other
elements with magnetic properties in a sensor cluster with more
than one sensor or sensor chip, sensory hardware element or sensory
channel, in particular those sensors or sensor clusters which are
used for implementing safety-critical applications. In addition,
embodiments also comprise technical implementation methods to
achieve the described object.
[0034] Examples of the approach presented here are explained in
more detail in the following description with reference to the
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a vehicle with a
sensor system in accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor device in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor system in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor device in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor device in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart of a method for producing in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 7 shows a flow chart of a method for operating in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a vehicle 100
having a sensor system 110 in accordance with one exemplary
embodiment. The sensor system 110 comprises a sensor device 120 and
a control unit 130.
[0043] The sensor device 120 comprises at least two magnetic field
sensors 122 and 124. A first magnetic field sensor 122 comprises a
first measurement transducer 123 or measurement value transducer
123. A second magnetic field sensor 124 comprises a second
measurement transducer 125 or measurement value transducer 125.
According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, the sensor device
120 also comprises a sensing magnet 126 which generates a sensing
magnetic field 127. Each of the magnetic field sensors 122 and 124
is configured to detect the sensing magnetic field 127 of the
sensing magnet 126.
[0044] The magnetic field sensors 122 and 124 are configured in
such a way that the sensing magnetic field 127 and an external
magnetic interference field from an interference source act
differently on the measurement transducers 123 and 125 of the
magnetic field sensors 122 and 124. The first magnetic field sensor
122 is configured to provide a first sensor signal 128. The second
magnetic field sensor 124 is configured to provide a second sensor
signal 129.
[0045] The control unit 130 is connected to the sensor device 120
such that it is capable of signal transmission. The control unit
130 is configured to operate the sensor device 120. For this
purpose, the control unit 130 comprises a reading device 132 and an
evaluation device 134. The reading device 132 is configured to read
in the sensor signals 128 and 129 from the magnetic field sensors
122 and 124 of the sensor device 120. The evaluation device 134 is
configured to evaluate the sensor signals 128 and 129 read in using
the reading device 132 in order to determine the sensing magnetic
field 127. The control unit 130 in this case is configured to
execute the method described in reference to FIG. 7.
[0046] According to one exemplary embodiment, the vehicle 100 is a
utility vehicle, such as a truck or similar. The magnetic field
sensors 122 and 124 are configured for magnetic field strengths of
the magnetic interference field, wherein the measurement of the
sensing magnetic field can be used for detecting the sensing
magnetic position.
[0047] FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a sensing device
120 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The sensor device
120 is the same as or similar to the sensor device from FIG. 1.
Here, the sensor device 120 is shown in a side view. The sensor
device 120 according to the exemplary embodiment shown here
comprises a first magnetic field sensor 122, a second magnetic
field sensor 124 and a third magnetic field sensor 224, which are
arranged on a circuit board 221 or a chip or sensor chip 221. The
magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224 in this case are arranged
on a first of two main surfaces of the circuit board 221. The
sensor device 120 also comprises a sensing magnet 126 which
generates a sensing magnetic field 127. The sensing magnet 126 is
arranged adjacent to the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224.
In addition, the first magnetic field sensor 122 comprises a device
240 for shielding and/or concentrating at least one component of
the sensing magnetic field 127 and/or an external magnetic
interference field. The shielding and/or concentrating device 240
is arranged on a second of the two main surfaces of the circuit
board 221. Thus, the circuit board 221 is arranged between the
magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224, in particular the first
magnetic field sensor 122, and the shielding and/or concentrating
device 240.
[0048] The shielding and/or concentrating device 240 is configured
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment to influence the sensing
magnetic field 127 and the external magnetic interference field in
different ways. In addition, according to one exemplary embodiment
the shielding and/or concentrating device 240 is oriented and/or
positioned depending on ambient magnetic conditions in an
environment of the sensor device 120. Even if it is not explicitly
shown in FIG. 2, the sensor device 120 can also comprise a housing.
In this case, the shielding and/or concentrating device 240 can be
arranged inside or outside the housing. According to an exemplary
embodiment, the second magnetic field sensor 124 and/or the third
magnetic field sensor 224 can also comprise an additional shielding
and/or concentrating device 240.
[0049] According to one exemplary embodiment, one or at least one
of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224, for example the
first magnetic field sensor 122, comprises a shielding and
concentrating device 240. Alternatively, one or at least one of the
magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224, for example the first
magnetic field sensor 122, can comprise a screening device and a
concentrating device, wherein the devices act differently on the
magnetic fields. Alternatively, at least a first of the magnetic
field sensors 122, 124 und 224 can comprise a shielding device and
at least a second of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 und 224
can comprise a concentrating device.
[0050] In other words, in order to achieve the state in which the
magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224 are configured in such a
way that the sensing magnetic field 127 and an external magnetic
interference field from an interference source act on the measuring
sensors of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224 in different
ways, the following possibilities are available, among others.
[0051] Use of a screen or shield as a magnetic manipulator or
device 140, which produces an attenuation of at least one component
of the external interference magnetic field targeted at the
location of at least one magnetic field sensor 122, 124 or 224. The
nature of the attenuation is different, in particular in its
direction and/or total field strength, in relation to whether it is
an external magnetic interference field or the sensing magnetic
field 127 of the sensing magnet 126, which is modified by the
movement of the sensing magnet 126, for example. The shield can be
mounted inside or outside a sensor (cluster) housing. In addition,
such a device 140 can be implemented by targeted mounting, for
example with regard to angle, location, etc., of the magnetic field
sensor 122, 124 or 224 with respect to the magnetic environment,
e.g. metallic parts in the environment of the sensor device 120.
[0052] Use of a magnetic concentrator as a manipulator or device
140, which generates a concentration of at least one component of
the sensing magnetic field 127 and/or the external magnetic
interference field targeted at the location of at least one
magnetic field sensor 122, 124 or 224. The nature of the
concentration in this case is different, in particular in its
direction and/or total field strength, in relation to whether it is
an external magnetic interference field or the sensing magnetic
field 127 of the sensing magnet 126, which is modified by the
movement of the sensing magnet 126, for example. The concentrator
can be mounted inside or outside a sensor (cluster) housing. In
addition, such a device 140 can be implemented by targeted
mounting, for example with regard to angle, location, etc., of the
magnetic field sensor 122, 124 or 224 with respect to the magnetic
environment, e.g. metallic parts in the environment of the sensor
device 120. [0053] Combinations of shield and concentrator, wherein
the effect on the sensing magnetic field 127 is different compared
to the effect on the external magnetic interference field at the
same location. The sensing magnetic field 127 can be strengthened
and the external magnetic interference field attenuated, or vice
versa. Both magnetic fields may also have an attenuation or an
amplification which differs in strength. This can be achieved by a
geometric arrangement of the shield and the concentrator. This
works when the sensing magnetic field and the magnetic interference
field do not have exactly the same direction vector. [0054]
Combinations of shield and concentrator, wherein the combination
affects the signal values differently with respect to different
magnetic field sensors 122, 124 or 224 (i.e., in different
locations). For example, the magnetic field sensor 122, 124 or 224
can experience a magnetic field that has changed in a first manner,
while the other magnetic field sensors experience a magnetic field
that has changed in a second manner, or has not changed.
[0055] FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor system 110
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The sensor system 110
is the same as or similar to the sensor system from FIG. 1. The
sensor system 110 is shown in a plan view. The parts of the sensor
system 110 shown are the sensor device 120, which is the same as or
similar to the sensor device from one of the figures described
above, and the control unit 130, which comprises a logic, for
example a comparator, etc. Furthermore, in the illustration of FIG.
3 an external magnetic interference field 301 from an interference
source, or the projection of this magnetic field into the 2D
drawing plane or the component of an external magnetic field
located in the drawing plane, is schematically illustrated.
[0056] The sensor device 120 according to the exemplary embodiment
shown here comprises a first magnetic field sensor 122, a second
magnetic field sensor 124 and a third magnetic field sensor 224,
which are arranged on a circuit board 221 or a chip or sensor chip
221. The sensor device 120 also comprises a sensing magnet 126
which generates a sensing magnetic field 127. The sensing magnet
126 is arranged adjacent to the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and
224. In addition, the first magnetic field sensor 122 comprises a
device 240 for shielding and/or concentrating at least one
component of the sensing magnetic field 127 and/or the external
magnetic interference field 301. Thus the sensor device 120
corresponds to the sensor device of FIG. 2, with the exception that
in the illustration in FIG. 3 it is apparent that the third
magnetic field sensor 224 is arranged in a rotated position with
respect to the other magnetic field sensors 122 and 124. Here, a
detection orientation of the third magnetic field sensor 224 is
rotated relative to the detection orientations of the first
magnetic field sensor 122 and the second magnetic field sensor
124.
[0057] In other words, the state in which the magnetic field
sensors 122, 124 and 224 are configured such that the sensing
magnetic field 127 and the external magnetic interference field 301
act differently on the measurement transducers of the magnetic
field sensors 122, 124 and 224 is also achieved by rotating the
orientation of at least one magnetic field sensor, in this case the
third magnetic field sensor 224, relative to the other magnetic
field sensors, in this case the magnetic field sensors 122 and 124.
Here, sensitive axes of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 and 224
are oriented in such a way that the effect is different depending
on whether it is acting on the external magnetic interference field
301 or the sensing magnetic field 127 of the sensing magnet 126,
which is altered by the movement of the sensing magnet 126, for
example.
[0058] In the illustration of FIG. 3, the first sensor signal 128
and the second sensor signal 129 as in FIG. 1, as well as a third
sensor signal 329 are also symbolically indicated, wherein the
third sensor signal 329 is transmitted between the third magnetic
field sensor 224 and the control unit 130.
[0059] FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor device 120
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. In the example shown in
FIG. 4, the approach presented here is not implemented in a
directly visible form, compared to the rotated implementation of
the sensor cascade 2, as shown in more detail in the following
figure. The sensor device 120 is the same as or similar to the
sensor device from one of the figures described above. The parts of
the sensor device 120 shown in the diagram of FIG. 4 are the
printed circuit board 221, the first magnetic field sensor 122, the
second magnetic field sensor 124, a further first magnetic field
sensor 422 and a further second magnetic field sensor 424. More
precisely, the sensor device 120 in FIG. 4 corresponds to the
sensor device from FIG. 1, with the exception that the additional
first magnetic field sensor 422 and the additional second magnetic
field sensor 424 are provided. The additional first magnetic field
sensor 422 and the additional second magnetic field sensor 424 are
used to extend the measuring range of the sensor device 120. In
addition, FIG. 4 shows a three-axis XYZ reference coordinate
system. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, the
detection orientations of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124, 422
and 424 are the same or identical in an XY plane of the XYZ
reference coordinate system. In the diagram of FIG. 4, an
interconnection of the components 124 and 412 has been selected
which allows the measuring range to be to extended, or can be used
the other way round.
[0060] FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a sensor device 120
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The sensor device 120
in FIG. 5 corresponds here to the sensor device of FIG. 4, with the
exception that the second magnetic field sensor 124 and the
additional second magnetic field sensor 424 are rotated relative to
the first magnetic field sensor 122 and the additional first
magnetic field sensor 422 in the XY plane of the XYZ reference
coordinate system. More precisely, the detection orientations of
the second magnetic field sensor 124 and the additional second
magnetic field sensor 424 are rotated relative to the first
magnetic field sensor 122 and the additional first magnetic field
sensor 422 in the XY plane of the XYZ reference coordinate
system.
[0061] With reference to the figures described above, it should be
noted that according to one exemplary embodiment, at least one of
the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 or 122, 124, 224 or 122, 124,
422, 424 can comprise a device for at least partially compensating
for the magnetic interference field 301. In other words, at least
one of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 or 122, 124, 224 or 122,
124, 422, 424 can comprise mechanisms, e.g. algorithms, etc., for
compensating or partially compensating for the external magnetic
fields 301. Even if the compensation effect of the at least one of
the magnetic field sensors 122, 124 or 122, 124, 224 or 122, 124,
422, 424 only acts partially or only in limited ranges of the
magnetic field strength, a usable influence on the plane of the
sensor device 120 or of the sensor system 110 is nevertheless
produced.
[0062] It should also be noted, with reference to the figures
described above, that each of the magnetic field sensors 122, 124
or 122, 124, 224 or 122, 124, 422, 424 can be configured for at
least two-axis magnetic field sensing. Each of the magnetic field
sensors 122, 124 or 122, 124, 224 or 122, 124, 422, 424 can be
configured to determine and output a magnetic angle determined from
at least two magnetic field components in the respective axial
direction.
[0063] A further aspect can also be taken into account for a more
compact configuration. For example, two properties describe the
different types of influence on the channels. In one exemplary
embodiment, a configuration may be provided such that in the range
of the (more widespread requirements) with regard to homogeneous
magnetic interference fields of low to moderate strength 0 to 1000
or 0 to 3000 Nm, no deviation occurs (or only a small value/below
the limit of the comparator). Thus, these fields cannot be detected
(or only in a comparatively small range of solid angles). In one
exemplary embodiment, a configuration may be provided such that
these small to moderate fields only result in a tolerably small
value error in the signal.
[0064] Both can be considered an important aspect of the system
stability in order to be tolerant to fields, the effect of which is
sufficiently small not to risk violating the requirements for the
maximum permissible error in the signal value. This requires a
partial co-directionality of the effects, or limitation of the
non-co-directionality.
[0065] Furthermore, a configuration can be such that the signal
error (at least in parts of the solid angle range of the external
magnetic interference field and the positions of the sensing
magnet, ideally under any angle and any position) would be reduced.
Thus, the part of the error in the same direction increases more
slowly than the measured values (mm) of the two sensors/channels
diverge. This requires a minimum influence of the measures (i.e.
the effect of the shielding or the concentrator) or methods, or a
minimum angle between the sensors etc.
[0066] FIG. 6 shows a flow diagram of a method 600 for producing in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The method 600 for
producing can be executed in order to produce a sensor device for a
vehicle. In this case, the method 600 for producing can be executed
to produce the sensor device from one of the figures described
above or a similar sensor device.
[0067] The method 600 for producing comprises a providing step 610
and an arranging and/or implementing step 620. In the providing
step 610, at least two magnetic field sensors are provided for
detecting a sensing magnetic field from a sensing magnet. In the
arranging and/or implementing step 620, the magnetic field sensors
are arranged and/or implemented in such a way that the resulting
magnetic field from the sensing magnetic field and an external
magnetic interference field from an interference source develops a
different strength of effect in different magnetic field
sensors.
[0068] FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram of a method 700 for operating in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The method 700 for
operating can be executed to operate a sensor device for a vehicle.
In this case the method 700 for operating can be executed in
conjunction with the sensor device from one of the figures
described above or a similar sensor device. In this case, the
method 700 for operating can be executed using the control unit
from one of the figures described above or a similar control
unit.
[0069] The method 700 for operating comprises a reading-in step 710
and an evaluating step 720. In the reading-in step 710, sensor
signals are read in from the at least two magnetic field sensors of
the sensor device. In the evaluating step 720, the sensor signals
read in during the reading-in step 710 are evaluated in order to
determine the properties of the sensing magnetic field.
THE LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS IS AS FOLLOWS
[0070] 100 vehicle [0071] 110 sensor system [0072] 120 sensor
device [0073] 122 first magnetic field sensor [0074] 123 first
measurement transducer or measurement value transducer [0075] 124
second magnetic field sensor [0076] 125 second measurement
transducer or measurement value transducer [0077] 126 sensing
magnet [0078] 127 sensing magnetic field [0079] 128 first sensor
signal [0080] 129 second sensor signal [0081] 130 control unit
[0082] 132 reader device [0083] 134 evaluation device [0084] 221
printed circuit board or (sensor) chip [0085] 224 third magnetic
field sensor [0086] 240 shielding and/or concentrating device
[0087] 301 external magnetic interference field [0088] 329 third
sensor signal [0089] 422 additional first magnetic field sensor
[0090] 424 additional second magnetic field sensor [0091] 600
method for producing [0092] 610 providing step [0093] 620 arranging
and/or implementing step [0094] 700 method for operating [0095] 710
reading-in step [0096] 720 evaluating step
* * * * *